Quick Washington State Parmesan Chicken
A quick, flavorful chicken dish featuring tender boneless breasts coated in Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs, baked to perfection in a buttery, cheesy crust. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of crispy texture and savory richness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each chicken breast in melted butter to coat thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the butter-coated chicken in the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking pan.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the butter before coating the chicken. If you're out of Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can work as substitutes. Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. For added crunch, you can mix in some crushed nuts or seeds with the bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Consider drizzling a light lemon sauce over the chicken to enhance the flavors, or browse more American recipes for complementary side dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the coating crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Washington State Parmesan Chicken contains roughly 455 calories, with 20g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (217% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (157% of the Daily Value), and calcium (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 906mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. The skin will add extra flavor and crispiness but ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly. If using skin-on, you might want to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it cooks through.
What can I do if I don't have bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs, you can make your own by toasting slices of bread and processing them into crumbs. Alternatively, crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even oats can be used in place of bread crumbs for a different texture and flavor.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).